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Asian Studies Courses

Explore topics in Asian studies

The following course list includes all options for this minor. The typical offerings listed for each course are estimates and subject to change. Work with your advisor when scheduling your classes each semester.

ECO 345 Asian Economies

This course addresses the rise to significance of the Asia-Pacific region in the world economy. This region of the world is typified by a delicate balance between governments and business interests, which accounts for their diverse development trajectories. This course will study how these countries have transformed themselves from peasant societies into industrial powerhouses and how they have continued to achieve growth rates several times higher than the advanced nations of the West over a period of time.

GRY 305 Selected World Regions

An in-depth study of selected regions of the world. Examples: Tropical Areas, Arid Regions, Polar Regions, Pacific Islands, Australia and New Zealand. Surveys geology, landforms, soil, vegetation, climate, settlement, population, economic activities and the cultural landscape. The course will be devoted to a single region that can vary from semester to semester. Students should check the current registration schedule to determine the topic title for any given semester. Since topics vary, the course may be repeated with permission. Variable content course.

HST 381 East Asian Civilization II

HST 571 China in the Twentieth Century

Prerequisite: 50 hours.

An intensive study of the transformation of China from a Confucian, Feudal state to a Communist world power. May be taught concurrently with HST 671. Cannot receive credit for both HST 671 and HST 571.

PHI 314 Asian Philosophy

This course compares and evaluates the major philosophies of the Eastern world. It treats selected topics from Indian, Chinese, and Japanese philosophies and examines the basic ideas that underlie the religious and moral viewpoints of these traditions.

PLS 545 Asian Politics

Prerequisite: PLS 101.

Recommended Prerequisite: 50 hours. A comparative study of the political and economic systems of contemporary Asia with emphasis on Japan, Korea, mainland China and Taiwan. Ideologies and strategies pursued by selected Asian governments are covered. Includes an assessment of contemporary economic, political and security issues in the region. America's economic, political and strategic ties with the region are also explored. May be taught concurrently with PLS 645. Cannot receive credit for both PLS 645 and PLS 545.

REL 355 Buddhism

Recommended Prerequisite: REL 210. A broad survey of the diverse patterns and expressions of Buddhist life throughout history. Studies will examine the beliefs, practices, and values that have existed among adherents of Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana Buddhism. Course materials will be drawn from Asian and Western cultures.

REL 357 Religions of China and Japan

Recommended Prerequisite: REL 210. An historical survey of the major religions from East Asia, with particular emphasis given to their doctrines, practices, and institutions. The course will focus on Confucianism, Daoism, Buddhism, and Shinto. Some consideration will also be given to Korean religious traditions, religion in contemporary East Asia, and popular religious traditions. Important themes include cultural adaptation and religious competition in East Asian religious history.